Wheat Straw Art of Madhya Pradesh

Wheat straw art (gehun ki kalam) is a traditional craft from Bhopal and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh in which wheat straw is split, flattened, and glued onto black cloth or wood in geometric and floral patterns. The natural golden colour of wheat straw contrasts with the black background to produce decorative pictures, boxes, and frames. The craft is practiced predominantly by Muslim women artisans of Bhopal, historically connected to the Nawabi court tradition. Wheat straw art received the State Craft Award from Madhya Pradesh government. Contemporary artisans produce wall panels, decorative boxes, and jewellery with wheat straw inlay. The craft provides supplementary income for urban and peri-urban women. Bhopal Haat and government craft emporia are the main sales channels. Revival has been supported by the MP Handicrafts Development Corporation.